‘Incredible’ De Bruyne keeps Man City in title hunt with win over Palace

Manchester City maintained their title challenge in ruthless fashion as “incredible” Kevin de Bruyne claimed his 100th goal for the club in a comeback victory at Crystal Palace.

In an entertaining encounter, Palace stunned City with an early opener from Jean-Philippe Mateta, before De Bruyne’s wonderful finish pulled the visitors level in the first half.

Mateta raced on to a pass from Adam Wharton and slotted the ball inside the far corner in only the third minute as noise erupted from the stands at Selhurst Park.

But De Bruyne’s curling effort was a sublime equaliser just 10 minutes later and, with a starring role for the rest of the game, City boss Pep Guardiola said their success was thanks to his “incredible” qualities.

“For many years he has been one of the best players for our club,” Guardiola told BBC Sport.

“What he has done in England has been unbelievable. Many goals, assists and consistency. We had four or five months without him and now we need him at the end of the season.

“I think he likes to score goals but I don’t know if he enjoys it more to make an assist. He is so generous with that – but he has to continue.”